In recent days so often it has been said that Israel stands isolated with regards to the Gaza naval blockade. We now know otherwise. In a meeting between Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas and President Obama in Washington last week Abbas told the US Pesident that he opposes the lifting of the naval blockade in the Gaza since such a move would “bolster Hamas” Abbas also said to Obama that more goods and aid should be brought through the Israel-Gaza border.

Egypt also favours maintaining the blockade because of arms smuggling concerns. It should be remembered that Hamas despite calls from the international community will not renounce violence and recognise Israel.

Hamas has also refused to allow new presidential and legislative elections to be held although they are overdue. Recent polls indicate that Hamas would lose to Fatah. The question might be asked do Hamas really want a peaceful settlement and an end to suffering.